Bill > SB2514

This bill establishes a Hostile Foreign Adversaries Unit within the Texas Department of Public Safety to combat foreign influence and adversary operations. The unit's primary responsibilities include preventing harassment and coercion of Texas residents by foreign adversaries, protecting critical infrastructure, and submitting biennial reports to the governor and legislature assessing foreign adversary threats. State agencies and local law enforcement must provide information about foreign adversary operations to the unit when requested. The bill also creates strict prohibitions for state and local government employees and volunteers, making it illegal to accept travel, lodging, gifts, or items of value from foreign adversaries. Employees are required to report any interactions with foreign adversary representatives within 30 days, and violations constitute a state jail felony. Additionally, the bill mandates that cybersecurity training programs include education on foreign adversary threats, identifying influence operations, and reporting mechanisms. The new requirements and unit will be implemented starting September 1, 2025, with specific reporting and certification timelines established to ensure gradual and thorough implementation of these new protective measures.

Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2514